H. ‘American Beauty’

Overview

Registered in 2000, this medium-sized cultivar resulted from a cross between a Hosta 'Dorothy Benedict' seedling (pod parent) and Hosta 'Green Piecrust' (pollen parent). 'American Beauty' is visually distinctive for its medium green leaves with streaked variegation and slightly rippled margins, combined with a cordate leaf base and dull surface texture on both sides.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 40 inches (101.6 cm) and height of 16 inches (40.6 cm), this upright, moderately growing hosta performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for variegated cultivars. Its 9‑inch (22.9 cm) leaves and green scapes reaching 20 to 24 inches (50.8 to 61.0 cm) make it a suitable mid‑border specimen or groundcover beneath deciduous trees. Pair with ferns, astilbes, or other shade‑tolerant perennials that complement its muted green tones.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.